Infrared radiation is an electromagnetic (EM) wave generated at a specific wavelength and frequency that can penetrate the skin to produce effects on tissues. Diathermy describes continuous or pulsed EM waves used on patients for deep heating tissues. Diathermy is used for wound healing through the biophysical effects of increasing local blood flow, metabolic reactions to increase oxygen uptake to tissues, and vascular effects of local vasodilation to increase blood flow, according to Thermal Agents in Rehabilitation. Adequate blood perfusion and oxygenation to tissues is vital to wound healing, according to the American Pediatric Surgical Nursing Association.
Step 1
Expose the area of the body with the wound and place the body in a comfortable position.
Step 2
Apply a 2mm-thick layer of petroleum jelly to the skin around the wound.
Step 3
Cut a window in the clean heavy paper towel the size and approximate shape of the wound. Apply the paper towel on the skin so the wound is exposed through the hole. Press lightly to adhere the towel to the petroleum jelly.
Step 4
Hold the infrared lamp perpendicular to the skin at a distance of 12 inches from the wound. Apply the infrared treatment for the specified time. The time should be determined by a health-care professional.
Step 5
Remove the paper towel and gently wipe the petroleum jelly off with a clean or sterile gauze.
Step 6
Repeat steps 1 through 5 daily for the time determined by your health-care professional.
Tips and Warnings
- A comfortable warmth should be felt during the treatment. Lower dosages are used to manage acute inflammation while higher dosages are used for more chronic conditions. Ask a friend or family member to assist you with the treatment if unable to adequately reach the wound.
- Infrared therapy should be used very carefully under the guidance of a health-care professional on people with a suspected impairment to distinguish temperature changes in the skin, such as in diabetics, or with spinal cord injuries, to avoid a burn. Infrared therapy should not be used over areas with internal or external metal objects, pacemaker devices, or during pregnancy.
Things You'll Need
- Infrared heat lamp
- Petroleum jelly
- Clean heavy paper towel
- Clean scissors
- Clean or sterile gauze
References
- Thermal Agents In Rehabilitation: Susan L. Michlovitz, 3rd edition, 1996
- American Pediatric Surgical Nursing Association: Wound Care Principles and Products- The Short Course
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